CN111683727A - Air cleaner assembly and method of use - Google Patents

Abstract

A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly is disclosed. The filter cartridge may include a media pack configured for installation into an air cleaner housing, the media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack defining an outer perimeter. The filter cartridge may further include a circumferential shell surrounding at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the media pack. A radial flange may also be provided extending from the circumferential shell proximate the media pack inlet end. The flange may define a plurality of openings configured to receive protrusions on a housing body of the air cleaner assembly. The interaction between the projection and the opening operates to ensure a secure seal between the housing body and the sealing member.

Description

Air cleaner assembly and method of use

This application was filed as an international PCT application at 27.11.2018 and claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application serial No. 62/591,169 filed at 27.11.2017, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to filter arrangements generally used for filtering air, such as intake air of an internal combustion engine, and more particularly to a filter assembly including a plurality of components arranged in a housing to provide a desired filtering capacity.

Background

Air or other gas filtration is desirable in many systems. A typical application is the filtration of intake air for internal combustion engines. Another application is the filtration of crankcase ventilation filter assemblies. Typically, such systems include a filter assembly having a serviceable cartridge therein. After a period of use, the filter media within the filter housing needs to be serviced, either by filtration or by complete replacement. Typically, for air cleaner or crankcase ventilation filter assemblies used with internal combustion engines, such as on vehicles, the filter media is contained in a removable and replaceable (i.e., serviceable) component, which is commonly referred to as a filter element or cartridge. The filter element is configured to be removably sealed in the air cleaner in use. Improvements in filter arrangements relating to assembly, serviceability and/or use are desirable. The filter element can be provided as a first (e.g., primary) filter element or a second (e.g., secondary or safety) filter element. The air cleaner assembly can include only the first filter element or both the first filter element and the second filter element.

Disclosure of Invention

A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly is disclosed.

In one example, the filter cartridge can include a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends. The media pack may have a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, wherein the length is greater than the width. The media pack may also be referred to as having one or more long sides. The filter element may include a radially directed seal member disposed about an outer periphery of the media pack. The cartridge may further include a first member of a tab-receptacle arrangement for engaging a second member of the tab-receptacle arrangement on a housing of the air cleaner assembly, the first member being positioned along a length of an outer perimeter of the media pack.

In one example, the first member is disposed on a flange extending radially from the outer periphery of the media pack.

In one example, the circumferential shell surrounds at least a portion of the media pack outer periphery.

In one example, the first member is disposed on a flange extending radially from the circumferential shell.

In one example, the first member defines an opening for receiving the projection of the second member.

In one example, the first member includes a plurality of first members.

In one example, at least some of the plurality of first members define openings.

In one example, the plurality of first members are spaced apart.

In one example, the radially directed seal member and the first member are positioned closer to the inlet end of the media pack than to the outlet end of the media pack.

In one example, the first member is positioned closer to the media pack inlet end than the radially directed seal member.

In one example, the first members include at least one first member positioned along a first long side of the media pack and at least one first member positioned along a second long side of the media pack.

In one example, the first member includes two first members located on a first long side of the media pack.

In one example, the first member is a projection.

In one example, the first member is an axially extending protrusion.

In one example, the flange extends continuously around the media pack outer perimeter.

In one example, an air cleaner is disclosed, comprising: an openable filter housing defining an interior region and an interior sealing surface; and any of the filter cartridges disclosed herein.

In one example, an air cleaner assembly includes a projection-receptacle arrangement including a first member and a second member. The first member may be positioned along the length of the outer perimeter of the media pack. The second member may be located on the housing.

In one example, the first member includes a plurality of openings and the second member includes a plurality of projections.

In one example, the openable filter housing cover includes a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the plurality of projections.

In one example, the second member is provided with a taper.

In one example, the radially directed seal member includes at least one lip seal extending from a base portion for forming a seal against an interior sealing surface of the housing, the base portion abutting the housing to constrain deflection of the housing in a direction toward the media pack.

In one example, a filter cartridge may include a media pack configured for installation into an air cleaner housing, the media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack defining an outer perimeter. The filter cartridge may further include a circumferential shell surrounding at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the media pack. A radial flange may also be provided extending from the circumferential shell proximate the media pack inlet end. The flange may define a plurality of openings configured to receive protrusions on a housing body of the air cleaner assembly. In some examples, the openings extend completely through the thickness of the radial flange. In some examples, the openings are pocket-like structures having open ends for receiving the projections.

In one example, the filter cartridge has a first length and a first width, wherein the first length is greater than the first width, and wherein the plurality of openings are positioned along the first length of the filter cartridge.

In one example, the plurality of openings are configured as slots extending through the radial flange.

In one example, the circumferential shell only partially surrounds the media pack.

In one example, the filter cartridge has an oblong shape.

In one example, the media pack is fluted media.

In one example, the plurality of openings includes at least two openings. In one example, the plurality of openings includes at least three openings. In one example, the plurality of openings includes four or more openings.

In one example, the plurality of openings includes at least two openings. In one example, the plurality of openings includes at least three openings.

In one example, the plurality of openings includes at least one opening on a first flange segment and at least one opening on a second flange segment opposite the first flange segment. In one example, the number of openings in the first flange section is not equal to the number of openings in the second flange section. In one example, the number of openings in the first flange section is equal to the number of openings in the second flange section. In one example, the first flange section includes one opening and the second flange section includes two openings.

In one example, a filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly includes: a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, the length being greater than the width; and a radially directed seal member disposed about the media pack outer periphery, the radially directed seal member including at least one lip seal extending from a base portion for forming a seal against a housing of the air cleaner assembly, the base portion configured to abut the housing to constrain deflection of the housing in a direction toward the media pack.

In one example, a filter cartridge includes a first member of a tab-receptacle arrangement for engaging a second member of the tab-receptacle arrangement on a housing of an air cleaner assembly, the first member positioned along a length of an outer perimeter of a media pack.

In one example, the at least one lip seal includes a pair of lip seals.

In one example, the cartridge includes a projection member extending from the seal member base portion. In one example, the protruding member is located between the pair of lip seals.

In one example, a filter cartridge is disclosed, comprising: a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, the length being greater than the width; a seal member extending at least partially around the media pack outer perimeter; and a first member of the tab-receptacle arrangement for engaging a second member of the tab-receptacle arrangement on a housing of the air cleaner assembly, the first member being positioned along a length of an outer perimeter of the media pack.

In one example, the first member is located between the sealing member and the media pack inlet flow end.

In one example, the first member is located between the sealing member and the media pack outlet flow end.

In one example, the filter cartridge includes a support structure extending about the outer periphery of the media pack, wherein the first member is supported by the support structure.

In one example, the support structure is a circumferential shell.

In one example, the first member includes a plurality of first members.

In one example, the plurality of first members are separate components that are individually supported on the filter cartridge.

In one example, the plurality of first members are commonly supported by a support structure.

In one example, the plurality of first members are collectively supported by a flange member.

In one example, the filter cartridge further includes a radially outwardly facing contact surface for constraining deflection of the housing in a radially inward direction.

In one example, the radially outwardly facing contact surface and the seal member are formed from the same material.

In one example, the sealing member is formed as an injection molded TPE material.

In one example, the first member has a radially inward facing contact surface for engaging with a second member on the housing to constrain deflection of the housing in a radially outward direction.

In one example, the sealing member includes at least one lip seal.

In one example, the sealing member includes a pair of lip seals.

In one example, the seal member includes a protruding member extending from the seal base portion.

In one example, the protruding member is located between the pair of lip seals.

In one example, the seal member is axially located between the first member and the radially outwardly facing contact surface.

In one example, the first member is closer to the inlet end of the media pack than the outlet end.

In one example, a filter cartridge is disclosed, comprising: a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, the length being greater than the width; a seal member extending at least partially around the media pack outer perimeter; and a first member of the accessory arrangement for engagement with a second member of the accessory arrangement on the housing of the air cleaner assembly, the first member cooperating with the second member to secure the filter cartridge to the housing.

In one example, the first member is movable between a latched position and a non-latched position.

In one example, the first member is rotatable between a latched position and a non-latched position.

In one example, the first member is rotatable about a living hinge.

In one example, the filter cartridge includes two first members.

In one example, the first member is located on an opposite first side of the filter element.

In one example, the first, opposite side of the filter element has a larger dimension than the second, opposite side of the filter element.

In one example, the filter cartridge includes a seat member that extends the outlet flow end of the ultrafiltration cartridge media in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge.

In one example, the stand member includes four stand members.

In one example, the seat member is integrally formed with the frame circumscribing the media pack.

In one example, a filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly includes: a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, the length being greater than the width; a radially directed seal member comprising a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment and the second segment are parallel to each other, and wherein the first segment is axially located between an inlet flow end and an outlet flow end, and wherein the second segment is axially located beyond the inlet or outlet end.

In one example, the radially directed seal member is injection molded onto a frame circumscribing the outer perimeter of the media pack.

In one example, the filter cartridge includes a circumferential flange arrangement proximate the media pack inlet end.

In one example, the circumferential flange is integrally formed with an outer frame circumscribing the media pack.

In one example, the circumferential flange forms a handle structure for installing and removing the filter cartridge.

In one example, the first and second segments of the seal member are joined by third and fourth segments to form a closed loop, wherein the third and fourth segments extend at an oblique angle to the first and second segments.

In one example, a precleaner assembly for an air cleaner includes: a first housing component defining at least one separator tube; a second housing component defining at least one outlet tube received by the at least one separator tube, wherein the first and second housing components are secured together by a snap-fit connection.

In one example, the snap-fit connection includes at least one aperture in one of the first and second housing components and at least one deflectable latch arm in the other of the first and second housing components and received by the at least one aperture.

In one example, the at least one aperture includes two apertures and the at least one deflectable latch arm includes two deflectable latch arms.

In one example, a filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly includes: a media pack configured for installation into an air cleaner housing, the media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack defining an outer periphery; a circumferential shell surrounding at least a portion of the media pack outer periphery; a flange structure extending from the circumferential shell proximate the media pack inlet end; a plurality of open pocket areas defined by the radial flange, the plurality of open pocket areas configured to receive a protrusion on a housing body of the air cleaner assembly; and a sealing arrangement supported on the flange structure.

In one example, the sealing arrangement is an outwardly directed radial seal.

In one example, the at least one of the plurality of open pocket regions is located radially between the circumferential shell and the sealing arrangement.

In one example, the sealing arrangement includes at least one radially outwardly directed lip seal for forming a seal against an interior surface of the air cleaner housing.

Various additional aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. These aspects may relate to individual features as well as combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventive concepts upon which the examples disclosed herein are based.

Drawings

The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure. The brief description of the drawings is as follows:

FIG. 1 is a first perspective view, which is a schematic representation of an air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 2 is a second perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a third perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 4 is a fourth perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 5 is a first side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 6 is a second side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 7 is a third side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 8 is a fourth side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 9 is a first end view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 10 is a second end view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 11 is a first perspective exploded view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 12 is a second perspective exploded view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 13 is a first cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 14 is a second view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 15 is a first perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1 with the cover assembly removed.

Fig. 16 is a second perspective view of the assembly shown in fig. 15.

Fig. 17 is a first side view of the assembly shown in fig. 15.

Fig. 18 is a second side view of the assembly shown in fig. 15.

Fig. 19 is a first end view of the assembly shown in fig. 15.

Fig. 20 is a first perspective view of a filter cartridge installed in the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 21 is a second perspective view of the cartridge shown in fig. 20.

Fig. 22 is a first side view of the cartridge shown in fig. 20.

Fig. 23 is a second side view of the cartridge shown in fig. 20.

Fig. 24 is a first end view of the cartridge shown in fig. 20.

Fig. 25 is a second end view of the cartridge shown in fig. 20.

Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge shown in fig. 20.

Fig. 27 is a first exploded perspective view of the cartridge shown in fig. 20.

Fig. 28 is a second exploded perspective view of the cartridge shown in fig. 20.

Fig. 29 is a first perspective view of the housing of the cartridge shown in fig. 20.

Fig. 30 is a second perspective view of the housing shown in fig. 29.

Fig. 31 is a first end view of the shell shown in fig. 29.

Fig. 32 is a second end view of the shell shown in fig. 29.

Fig. 33 is a first side view of the housing shown in fig. 29.

Fig. 34 is a second side view of the housing shown in fig. 29.

Fig. 35 is a first perspective view of a cover assembly of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 36 is a second perspective view of the cap assembly shown in fig. 35.

Fig. 37 is a first side view of the cap assembly shown in fig. 35.

Figure 38 is a second side view of the lid assembly shown in figure 35.

Fig. 39 is a third side view of the cap assembly shown in fig. 35.

Fig. 40 is a first end view of the cap assembly shown in fig. 35.

FIG. 41 is a first perspective view of a housing of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1.

Fig. 42 is a second perspective view of the housing shown in fig. 41.

Fig. 43 is a first end view of the housing shown in fig. 41.

Fig. 44 is a first side view of the housing shown in fig. 41.

Fig. 45 is a second side view of the housing shown in fig. 41.

Fig. 46 is a third side view of the housing shown in fig. 41.

Fig. 47 is a fourth side view of the housing shown in fig. 41.

Fig. 48 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 1, with the filter cartridge installed in a housing of the air cleaner assembly.

Fig. 49 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 48, with the filter cartridge further installed.

Fig. 50 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 48, with the filter cartridge fully installed.

FIG. 51 is a first perspective view, which is a schematic representation of a second example of an air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 52 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 51, with the filter cartridge installed in a housing of the air cleaner assembly.

Fig. 53 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 51, with the filter cartridge further installed.

Fig. 54 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 52, with the filter cartridge fully installed.

Fig. 55 is a first perspective view, which is a schematic representation of a third example of an air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure, with a cover of the air cleaner assembly removed.

Fig. 56 is a side view of the air cleaner shown at fig. 55, with the attachment member of the filter cartridge shown in a latched position.

Fig. 57 is a top view of the air cleaner shown at fig. 56.

Fig. 58 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown at fig. 56, showing the first attachment member in a latched position.

Fig. 59 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown at fig. 56, showing the second attachment member in a latched position.

Fig. 60 is a perspective view of an air filter cartridge of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 55.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of the housing of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 55.

Fig. 62 is a top view of the air filter cartridge shown in fig. 60.

Fig. 63 is a first side view of the air filter cartridge shown in fig. 60.

Fig. 64 is a second side view of the air filter cartridge shown in fig. 60.

Fig. 65 is a schematic first side view of a fourth example of a filter cartridge having features according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 66 is a schematic second side view of the cartridge shown in fig. 65.

FIG. 67 is a perspective view, which is a schematic representation of a fourth example of an air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 68 is an exploded perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 67.

FIG. 69 is a first cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly illustrated in FIG. 67.

Fig. 70 is a second cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 67.

Fig. 71 is a side view of the primary and secondary filter elements of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 67.

Fig. 72 is a perspective view of the primary cartridge shown in fig. 71.

Fig. 73 is a first side view of the primary cartridge shown in fig. 71.

Fig. 74 is a second side view of the primary cartridge shown in fig. 71.

Fig. 75 is a top view of the primary cartridge shown in fig. 71.

Fig. 76 is a bottom view of the primary cartridge shown in fig. 76.

Fig. 77 is a cross-sectional side view of the primary cartridge shown in fig. 71.

Fig. 78 is a perspective view of the secondary cartridge shown in fig. 71.

Fig. 79 is a top view of the secondary cartridge shown in fig. 71.

Fig. 80 is a first side view of the secondary cartridge shown in fig. 71.

Fig. 81 is a second side view of the secondary filter element shown in fig. 71.

FIG. 82 is a perspective view, which is a schematic representation of a fifth example of an air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 83 is an exploded perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 82.

Fig. 84 is a first side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 82.

Fig. 85 is a second side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 82.

Fig. 86 is a third side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 82.

Fig. 87 is a fourth side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 82.

Fig. 88 is a bottom view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 82.

Fig. 89 is a top view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 82.

Fig. 90 is a first cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly illustrated in fig. 82.

Fig. 91 is a second cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly illustrated in fig. 82.

FIG. 92 is a top perspective view of the precleaner assembly of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82.

Fig. 93 is a bottom perspective view of the precleaner assembly shown in fig. 92.

Fig. 94 is an exploded view of the precleaner assembly shown in fig. 92.

Fig. 95 is a cross-sectional view of the precleaner assembly shown in fig. 92.

Fig. 96 is a bottom perspective view of the secondary filter element of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 92.

Fig. 97 is a top perspective view of the secondary cartridge shown in fig. 96.

Fig. 98 is a side view of the secondary cartridge shown in fig. 96.

Fig. 99 is a cross-sectional view of the secondary filter element shown in fig. 96.

Fig. 100 is a bottom view of the secondary filter element shown in fig. 96.

Fig. 101 is a top view of the secondary filter element shown in fig. 96.

Fig. 102 is a first end view of the secondary cartridge shown in fig. 96.

Fig. 103 is a second end view of the secondary filter element shown in fig. 96.

FIG. 104 is a perspective view, which is a schematic representation of a sixth example of an air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure.

Fig. 105 is an exploded perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 104.

Fig. 106 is a first cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly illustrated in fig. 104.

Fig. 107 is a second cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly illustrated in fig. 104.

Fig. 108 is a perspective view of the housing of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 104.

Fig. 109 is a top view of the housing shown in fig. 108.

Fig. 110 is a perspective view of a main cartridge of the air cleaner assembly shown in fig. 104.

Fig. 111 is a first side view of the primary filter cartridge shown in fig. 110.

Fig. 112 is a second side view of the primary filter cartridge shown in fig. 110.

Fig. 113 is a bottom view of the primary filter cartridge shown in fig. 110.

Fig. 114 is a top view of the primary filter cartridge shown in fig. 110.

Fig. 115 is a first perspective view of the housing of the primary filter cartridge shown in fig. 110.

Fig. 116 is a second perspective view of the housing shown in fig. 115.

Detailed Description

Various examples will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Reference to various examples does not limit the scope of the claims appended hereto. Additionally, any examples set forth in this specification are not intended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possible examples for the appended claims. Reference is made to the drawings wherein like reference numerals correspond to like or similar components throughout the several figures.

General construction

Referring to fig. 1-14, a filter assembly 100 is presented. In many examples, the depicted filter assembly 100 is an air cleaner assembly 100, such as for filtering intake air of an internal combustion engine. Additional applications are possible, for example, where the filter assembly 100 is a crankcase ventilation filter assembly, wherein the filter element is used to filter crankcase blowby gases, which typically include both particulate and liquid contaminants therein. Both types of filter assemblies are typically "gas filter assemblies" because the carrier grade being filtered is gas (air or crankcase ventilation gas). Although the techniques described herein will generally be used in gas filtration applications, they may be used in the filtration of other substances (e.g., liquids), if desired.

Referring now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air cleaner 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The air cleaner 10 includes a housing body 20, a cover assembly 30 that cooperatively define an interior region 20i within which a removable primary filter element 100 and a removable secondary filter element 200 are positioned. The air cleaner assembly 10 also includes an air inlet port 50 through which air to be filtered enters the assembly 10. The air cleaner assembly 10 also includes an outlet 40 positioned to exit filtered air. The outlet 40 may be made separately from and attached to the housing body 20, or may be integrally constructed as part of the housing body 20.

In one aspect, the illustrated air cleaner assembly 10 is a two-stage air cleaner assembly that includes a precleaner 60 as part of the cover assembly 30. In one aspect, the cover assembly 30 is provided as two separable parts 30a, 30b, with the cover body 30a being embodied in the side wall 32 and the precleaner 60 being embodied as the second part 30 b. The components 30a, 30b may be secured to the housing body 20 via fasteners (e.g., threaded screws) 30 c. The pre-filter 60 is generally used to filter selected substances or contaminants carried by the air flow entering the air filter assembly 10 before the air reaches the filter element positioned in the air filter assembly. The precleaner generally includes a plurality of separator tubes 62 or centrifugal separators that receive air and rotate the air to remove large particulates, and then permit the precleaned air to exit the precleaner. The separator tube 62 is most easily seen at the cross-sectional views shown in fig. 13 and 14. The precleaned air exits the separator tube 62 at the outlet 64 of the precleaner 60 and then flows into the inlet flow face of the filter cartridge 100. A purge port or outlet 66 may be provided in the cover assembly 30 for removing the separated large particulates. In the embodiment shown in fig. 14, fourteen separator tubes 64 are provided. More or fewer separator tubes may be provided. The air cleaner assembly 10 may be provided without a precleaner assembly such that the air cleaner assembly 10 is a single stage assembly having only a primary filter element 100 or having a primary filter element 100 and a secondary filter element 200.

In one aspect, the housing body 20 is defined by a peripheral sidewall 22 defining a pair of long straight sides 22a and a pair of short curved sides 22 b. In one aspect, the long straight side 22a is relatively flexible, particularly compared to the side 22 b. Sidewall 22 extends from an open end 22c for receiving cartridge 100, 200 to an outlet end 22d adjacent outlet 40. The housing body 20 is shown in isolation at fig. 41 to 47. As shown, the peripheral side wall 22 extends to a radial flange wall 24 proximate the open end 22 a. The flange wall 24 is used to support a corresponding flange 125 (discussed later) of the cartridge 100. Also shown is an axial flange wall 26 extending from the radial flange wall 24. The axial flange wall 26 of the housing body 20 cooperates with the axial flange wall 26 on the cover assembly 30 to form a weather barrier to prevent moisture and contaminants from generally entering the filter housing. As shown, a plurality of axial projections 28 extend from the radial flange wall 24.

The axial projection 28 is received by a corresponding opening 127 (discussed later) of the cartridge 100. The protrusion 28 and the opening 127 together form a cooperating part of a projection-receptacle arrangement, wherein the opening 127 may be referred to as the first part 127 of the projection-receptacle arrangement and the protrusion may be referred to as the second part 28 of the projection-receptacle arrangement. In one aspect, axial projection 28 is tapered with a ramped surface 28a to enable easier initial alignment of projection 28 within opening 127 and to allow for a smooth transition to the full thickness of projection 28 so that tension may be gradually increased. Although the ramp surface 28a is shown as facing outwardly from the housing body 20, the ramp surface 28a may also be arranged to face inwardly toward the longitudinal axis of the housing body. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 28 contacts only a radially inward facing portion of the opening 127 on the side of the ramp surface 28a, such that the interaction between the opening 127 and the protrusion 28 serves only to constrain the radially outward deflection of the relatively flexible housing sidewall long side 22 a. Although tabs 28 having ramped surfaces 28a can be provided on both sides of the tabs 28 such that the interaction of the tabs 28 and openings 127 constrains the sidewall long sides 22a in both the radially inward and radially outward directions, a larger cartridge 100 will result since the location of the projection will need to be moved radially outward. Thus, the disclosed arrangement of utilizing the projections 28 and openings to provide an outward constraint on the housing sidewall 22a results in a more compact configuration.

As shown, the projections 28 are disposed along the long side 22a of the flange wall 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the projections 28 are configured as elongate members extending in a lengthwise direction parallel to the long sides 24a of the flange walls 24. As shown, one projection 28 is disposed on one of the long sides 24a of the flange wall 24, and two projections 28 are disposed on the other of the long sides 24a of the flange wall. However, other configurations are possible, such as two or more projections 28 disposed on each long side 24 a. Although protrusions 28 are shown as elongate members, protrusions 28 may be formed from a variety of shapes, for example, prismatic geometries, such as circles, triangles, squares, and the like.

In one aspect, the housing body 20 defines a pair of recesses or cavities 22e disposed along the short sides 22b of the housing body 20. The recess 22e forms part of a receiver-tab arrangement and is configured to receive a correspondingly shaped tab 121 on the cartridge 100. The interaction between the recess 22e and the protrusion 121 cooperatively forming the receiver-protrusion arrangement enables the filter cartridge 100 to be properly aligned with the housing body 20 such that the seal member 130 of the filter cartridge can adequately form a seal against the sealing surface 22f of the housing body 20. The tabs 121 and the sealing member 130 of the filter cartridge 100 are further discussed in the following sections.

In one aspect, the air cleaner assembly 10 may be provided with a mounting system 12 for mounting the air cleaner assembly 10 to a structure, such as a portion of a vehicle. As shown, the mounting system 12 is presented as a pair of feet or ribs 12a extending from the housing body 20. The foot 12a may be provided with an opening 12b for receiving a screw or bolt. In some examples, the opening 12b is threaded.

In one aspect, the air cleaner assembly 10 may be provided with an airflow sensing system 14 for measuring airflow exiting the air cleaner assembly 10. In one aspect, the airflow sensing system 14 includes an airflow measuring component 14 a. In one example, the airflow measuring component 14a includes a mechanical airflow restriction indicator. The housing body 20 may include a port 14b for receiving the airflow measuring component 14 a.

In one aspect, the air cleaner assembly 10 may include a locking or latching mechanism 90 for securing the cover assembly 30 to the housing body 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch mechanism 90 includes a pair of over-center latches 92 that secure one side of the interface between the lid assembly 30 and the housing body 20. More or fewer latches 92 may be provided. Also, different styles of latches may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 92 is mounted to the cover assembly 30 and engages a latch connection 92a located on the housing body 20. The latch 92 may alternatively be mounted on the housing body 20.

On the side of the air cleaner assembly 10 opposite the latch 90, the housing body 20 includes a pair of first interface members 94 and the cover assembly 30 includes a pair of second interface members 96. As configured, each of the first interface members 94 defines a pair of central openings 94a, and each of the second interface members 96 defines a pair of laterally extending projections 96 a. The central opening 94a of each first interface member 94 receives the laterally extending projection 96a of one of the second interface members 96, but allows the cap assembly 30 to rotate relative to the housing body 20. The cap assembly 30 is mounted to the case body 20 by: the laterally extending projections 96a are first inserted into the openings 94a and then the lid assembly 30 is rotated relative to the housing body 20 into the closed position. In the closed position, the latches 92 may engage with the latch connection portions 92a of the housing body to secure the lid assembly 30 to the housing body 20. Although two interface members 94, 96 are shown, and although two openings 94a and two projections 96a are shown for each interface member 94, 96, more or fewer interface members and/or projections and openings may be provided. Additionally, in some configurations, the opening 94a may be disposed on the cap assembly 30 and the protrusion 96a may be disposed on the housing body 20.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cap assembly 30 is defined by a perimeter wall 32 and a flange wall 34. The cap assembly 30 is shown in isolation at fig. 35-40. In one aspect, each of the peripheral wall 32 and the flange wall 34 has a pair of straight and long sides 32a, 34a adjoining a pair of short and curved sides 32b, 34 b. At the location of the protrusion 28 of the housing body 28, the cap assembly 30 is provided with a recessed portion or cavity portion 36 for receiving the protrusion 28. Thus, the protrusions 28 do not interfere with the closing action when the lid assembly 30 is rotated into the closed position. The cap assembly 30 is also provided with a radial flange wall 34 extending from the peripheral wall 32. When the cover assembly 30 is in the closed position, the flange wall 34 of the cover assembly 30 and the flange wall 24 of the body 20 sandwich the flange wall 125 of the filter cartridge 100 to secure the filter cartridge 100 in the installed position. As previously mentioned, the cover assembly 30 also includes an axially extending flange wall 38 that, in combination with the flange wall 26 of the housing body 20, acts as a weather barrier. Although flange wall 38 is not shown as extending completely around flange wall 34, such a configuration is possible.

Filter cartridge 100

Referring now to fig. 20-34, an exemplary embodiment of a filter cartridge 100 of the air cleaner assembly 10 is illustrated. The cartridge 100 extends between a first end 102 and a second end 104. In one aspect, first end 102 can be characterized as an upstream end of filter cartridge 100, while second end 104 can be characterized as a downstream end of filter cartridge 100. The filter cartridge 100 can be considered a primary or primary filter cartridge and is used to selectively separate a desired amount of particulate or retained matter.

The filter cartridge 100 is typically a service part or removable component such that it is periodically removable and replaceable as desired or needed during the life of the air cleaner 10. In particular, when the filter cartridge 100 is clogged or otherwise needs replacement, the cap assembly 30 is unlocked from the housing body 20 and the clogged filter 100 is removed. After such removal, another filter 100 may be placed in the housing body 20 by inserting the filter cartridge 100.

The filter cartridge 100 generally includes a media pack 110, a shell 120, a seal member 130 at an inlet end of the media pack 110, and a second shell 140.

In one aspect, the seal member 130 will generally be made of a relatively flexible material and may be referred to herein as a "flexible seal member" and may include an axially (i.e., facing a direction or plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge), or radially (i.e., facing a direction or plane(s) parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge) contracting seal member. In the example shown, the flexible material is an injection molded thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The sealing member 130 may also be formed of other materials, such as polyurethane. The retaining features of the housing and cartridge disclosed herein are particularly advantageous for use with arrangements in which the cartridge has a radial seal member. In one example, the sealing member 130 is provided as an injection molded gasket that is molded directly onto the housing 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the seal member 130 is provided as an injection molded gasket having a pair of radially acting parallel lip seals 132(132a, 132 b). In some arrangements, the sealing member 130 may be formed directly onto the media pack 110 or secured directly to the media pack 110. In one aspect, the lip seal 132 may be characterized as an outwardly directed radial seal that seals against an inner face or surface of the housing body 20 within the interior region 20 i.

Referring to fig. 26, further details of the sealing member 130 are illustrated. In one aspect, two sealing lips 132a, 132b extend from the base portion 130a at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, such that the sealing lips extend in a radially outward direction and in an axial direction toward the first end 102. The sealing arrangement 130 further comprises a tab projection 133 extending from the base portion 130a at a location between the sealing lips 132a, 132 b. The tab projection 133 is a region of thickened material extending radially outward that operates to help maintain the filter cartridge 100 in a generally centered position within the housing body 20 and to limit radial movement of the filter cartridge 100 within the housing body 20. Thus, the tab projections 133 ensure that the seal lips 132a, 132b do not become over-compressed on one side and then uncompressed on the opposite side and potentially unsealed to the housing body 20. The bump protrusions 133 may also be positioned at other locations.

As shown, the shell 120 includes a pair of tabs 121 that are received into corresponding recesses 22e defined within the housing body 20. In the example shown, the protrusion 121 is trapezoidal in shape, with a central portion bordered by ramp surfaces extending from the peripheral wall 122 and the flange wall 125 of the housing 120. The seal member 130 is offset toward the second end 104 of the cartridge 100 proximate the protrusion 121 such that the seal member 130 is located between the protrusion 121 and the second end 104 of the cartridge 100. At other locations, portions of the sealing member 130 are positioned in a coplanar relationship with the protrusions 121. In an alternative arrangement, the projection 121 may be provided on the housing body 20 and the receiving arrangement 22 may be provided on the filter cartridge 100. In one aspect, the housing protrusion 121 and the sealing member 130 are configured in a manner similar to that shown and described in PCT patent application publication WO 2017/106752, published on 22/6/2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The WO' 752 publication discloses a trapezoidal ramp protrusion and an axially offset sealing member. In one aspect, the flange wall 125 and the protrusion 121 cooperate with the housing 20 to form a weather barrier to shield the sealing member 130 from the external environment. In one aspect, the tabs 121 function to fix the rotational and/or axial position of the filter cartridge 100 relative to the housing 20.

In the example shown, the media pack 110 has: an inlet flow face 112 for receiving unfiltered air or precleaned air from a precleaner (if provided); and an outlet flow face 114 for delivering filtered air. The media pack 110 is shown in isolation at fig. 70. In the example shown, the media pack 110 has an oblong cross-sectional shape such that the media pack 110 and the filter element 100 have a pair of long, straight sides 110a, 100a and a pair of short, rounded sides 110b, 100 b. However, other shapes are possible, such as curved, circular, elliptical, kidney-shaped, twisted-pair (i.e., peanut-shaped or dual-purpose, fig. 8), and rectangular cross-sectional shapes. Where such other shapes are provided, the housing 20 may likewise be provided with a similar shape such that the sealing member 130 may form a seal with the sealing surface 22f of the housing body 20. In such configurations, the "long sides" or "length" of the filter and housing may be characterized as each side or portion of the perimeter having a largest dimension and/or extending generally along or parallel to an axis of the longest dimension extending through the filter and housing. Similarly, the "short sides" or "width" of the filter and housing may be characterized as each side or portion of the perimeter having the shortest dimension and/or extending generally along or parallel to the axis of the shorter dimension extending through the filter and housing. For example, a kidney filter has longer concave and convex sides characterized by a long side or length interconnected by two shorter ends characterized by shorter sides or widths. Similarly, a filter element that is double twisted wire shaped will have two long sides extending between two end lobes and the interconnected concave portions, and will have two short sides extending around the end of each lobe.

In one aspect, the media pack 110 defines an outer perimeter 116 extending between the inlet flow face 112 and the outlet flow face 114. In the example shown, the media pack 110 is formed of a coiled media construction, such as a media construction having a fluted (typically corrugated) media sheet and a facing media (facing media) sheet that together define parallel flutes to form a fluted or z-shaped filter media construction. Media construction suitable for the media pack 110 is discussed in more detail in the media type and configuration section.

In one aspect, shells 120 and 140 of cartridge 100 are formed from a polymeric material, such as ABS plastic. The shell 120 is shown in isolation at fig. 27-34. In one aspect, the shell 120 defines a perimeter wall 122 that surrounds a portion of the outer perimeter 116 of the media pack 110, while the shell 140 defines a perimeter wall 142 that surrounds a portion of the outer perimeter 116 of the media pack. Also shown is a grid structure 123 provided to the housing 120 for supporting the inlet flow face 114 of the media pack 110. The shell 140 is also provided with a grid structure 143 for supporting the outlet flow face 114 of the media pack 110. The shells 120, 140 may be provided without a grating structure 123, 143. However, the grate structures 123, 143 help prevent the coiled media pack 110 from telescoping. The shells 120, 140 may be secured to the media pack 110 by an adhesive. Notably, the grid structure 123 helps provide structural integrity to the filter cartridge in the direction between the openings 127 so that the filter cartridge 100 is not pulled apart by the interaction between the protrusions 28 and the openings 127. In one aspect, the perimeter wall 122 may surround a portion of the media pack outer perimeter 116 (as shown), or surround the entire media pack outer perimeter 116. In the latter case, the shells 120 and 140 may be integrally formed together.

In one aspect, the shell 120 may be more generally characterized as a support structure that supports the flange 125 (and the opening 127) and the grid structure 123. Additionally, the support structure may be configured to be directly connected to the support ring or frame of the media pack 110 without the need for a shell-like structure extending around the perimeter of the media pack.

Housing 120 is also shown as being integrally formed with a pair of handles 124 extending from a flanged wall 125 to allow an operator to remove and install filter cartridge 100. In the example shown, the handle 124 is formed with the housing 120 such that an open space 124a exists between the handle 124 and a flange wall 125 of the housing 120 to allow an operator to grasp the handle 124.

The shell 120 is also shown to include a radially extending flange wall 125. A flange wall 125 extends from the shell perimeter wall 122 and radially beyond the outer perimeter 116 of the media pack 110. Similar to media pack 110, flange wall 125 includes a pair of long straight sides 125a and a pair of short rounded sides 125 b. Despite the presence of handle 124, flange wall 125 is positioned proximate inlet flow face 112 and defines the most distal end of the inlet of cartridge 100. When cartridge 100 is installed within housing body 20, flange wall 125 rests against a corresponding flange 24 on housing body 20. Accordingly, the filter cartridge 100 is supported by the housing body 20 via the flange wall 125.

In one aspect, the flange wall 125 includes a plurality of openings 127 disposed along the long side 125a of the flange wall 125. As best seen at fig. 26, opening 127 is laterally offset from media pack outer periphery 116 and shell peripheral wall 122. This offset allows the opening 127 to receive a correspondingly shaped protrusion 28 extending from the housing body 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 127 is configured as a slot extending lengthwise parallel to the long side 125a of the flange wall 125. As shown, one opening 127 is provided on one of the long sides 125a of the flange wall 125, and two openings 127 are provided on the other of the long sides 125a of the flange wall. However, other configurations are possible, such as providing two or more openings 127 on each long side 125 a. Although the opening 127 is shown as an elongated opening, the opening 127 may be formed from a variety of shapes, for example, geometric shapes such as circles, triangles, squares, and the like. In addition, the opening 127 may be formed by discrete or separate flange-type members, rather than the single continuous flange 125 shown.

When the cartridge 100 is installed in the housing 20, the tabs 28 of the housing body 20 are fully received into the openings 127 on the cartridge 100 to stabilize the flexible side 22a of the housing body 20. At the same time, the side wall 122 of the housing 120 is pulled into the interior region 20i of the housing body, with the base member 130a of the sealing member 130 contacting the interior surface of the housing body peripheral wall 122. Thus, shell sidewall 122 and base member 130a provide an outward restraint on shell body sidewall 22, thereby preventing inward deflection of shell body sidewall 22, while tab 28 and opening 127 provide both inward and outward deflection of body sidewall 122. The disclosed arrangement can also compensate for manufacturing variances by positively positioning the sealing surface 22f relative to the seal member 130 of the cartridge. In one configuration, filter cartridge 100 and body 22 are configured such that there is no contact between base member 103 a/housing sidewall 122 and housing body peripheral wall 122, where protrusion 28 and opening 127 are the only features that stabilize housing body 20. However, with such contact provided, enhanced stabilization of the housing body 20 results. Fig. 13-19 show the filter cartridge 100 in such a position relative to the housing body 20.

Since the filter cartridge 100 is provided with an outwardly directed radial seal member 130 that seals against a sealing surface 22f on the interior of the housing body 20, any outward deflection of the housing body 20 results in a leakage path being formed between the housing body 20 and the seal member 130. The most likely location for such deflection to occur is along the long side 22a of the housing body 20. This is particularly prevalent where oblong or rectangular filter cartridges 100 and housing bodies 20 having a relatively high length-to-width aspect ratio are used. To ensure that such outward deflection does not occur, the projections 28 and openings 127 are positioned along the long side 22a of the housing body 20. Once the cartridge 100 is installed within the housing body 20, the projection 28 is locked into the opening 127. Thus, the projections 28 are prevented from deflecting radially outward by the openings 127 in the cartridge 100. Because the projection 28 is part of the housing body 20, the long side 22a of the housing body 20 is also prevented from deflecting radially outward by the interaction between the opening 127 and the projection 28.

In the example shown, the opening 127 acts on the protrusion 28 to draw the housing body 20 inwardly to a desired shape so that the geometry of the housing body is controlled and a more effective seal is formed. In such a configuration, the ramp surface 28a assists in the initial alignment of the projection 28 into the opening 127. For example, reference can be made to fig. 48 and 49, wherein it can be seen that the projection 28 pulls the housing body peripheral wall 22 closer to the cartridge 100. Fig. 50 shows the final pulled-in position of the peripheral wall 22, in which the projection 28 is fully seated in the opening 127 of the filter cartridge 100.

Although the protrusion 28 is shown associated with the housing body 29 and the opening 127 is shown associated with the filter cartridge 100, the filter cartridge 100 can be provided with a protrusion and the housing body 20 can be provided with an opening. Additionally, although the opening 127 is shown as extending completely through the flange wall 125, the opening 127 may be formed as a pocket or cavity structure that similarly constrains the movement of the protrusion 28.

Filter element 200

Referring to fig. 11-20, the exemplary air cleaner assembly 10 includes an optional secondary or safety cartridge 200. The safety cartridge 200 is shown in isolation in fig. 11 and 12. The safety filter 200 may be generally positioned between the main cartridge 100 and the outlet 40 of the housing body 20. In a typical arrangement, the safety filter 200 is removably positioned within the air cleaner assembly 10, and will also generally be considered a maintenance component that is removable and replaceable as desired and/or as needed.

The exemplary embodiment of the safety filter 200 includes an outer frame 202 that carries a sealing member 204 and generally matches the size and shape of the inner region of the housing body 20 and may seal to the inner surface of the housing body 20, preferably without gaps. In this manner, the safety filter 200 may be pressed into the housing in a friction fit against the wall of the housing such that no air may reach the outlet without first passing through the safety filter 200. The safety filter 200 may also include filter media 220, such as pleated media. A handle 206 may also be provided to facilitate installation and removal of the cartridge 200 from the housing 20. Tabs (tab)206a received in recesses of the housing body 20 may also be provided on the cartridge 200 to help hold the cartridge 200 in place.

Media type and configuration

Any type of filter media may be used as a media pack for the filter cartridge 100, 200 according to embodiments of the present invention. One exemplary arrangement includes fluted filtration media, such as a z-filter construction. As used herein, the term "z-shaped filter construction" is intended to refer to a filter construction of the type wherein individual ones of the corrugated, pleated, or otherwise formed filter flutes are used to define sets of longitudinal (typically parallel) inlet and outlet filter flutes for fluid flow through the media; fluid flows along the length of the flutes between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends (or flow faces) of the media. Some examples of filter media are provided in the following documents: us patent 5,820,646; 5,772,883, respectively; 5,902,364, respectively; 5,792,247, respectively; 5,895,574, respectively; 6,210,469, respectively; 6,190,432; 6,350,296, respectively; 6,179,890, respectively; 6,235,195, respectively; d399,944; d428,128; d396,098; d398,046; and D437,401, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

One type of z-shaped filter media utilizes two particular media components that are joined together to form a media construction. These two components include a fluted (typically corrugated) media sheet and a facing media sheet. The facing media sheet is typically non-corrugated, although it may also be corrugated (e.g., perpendicular to the flute direction), as described in U.S. provisional application No. 60/543,804, filed on 11/2/2004 and published on 25/8/2005 as PCT WO05/077487, which is incorporated herein by reference.

A fluted media sheet and a facing media sheet are used together to define media having parallel inlet flutes and outlet flutes. In some cases, the fluted sheet and the facing sheet are secured together and then coiled as a media strip to form a z-shaped filter media construction. Such arrangements are described, for example, in U.S. patent nos. 6,235,195 and 6,179,890, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

In certain other arrangements, some non-coiled sections or strips of fluted (typically corrugated) media secured to surface media are stacked on top of one another to form a filter construction.

Corrugated media is one particular form of fluted media in which the fluted media has individual flutes or ridges (e.g., formed by corrugating or folding) extending across it. The term "corrugated" is used herein to refer to structures in media, such as media having a fluted construction resulting from passing the media between two corrugating rolls (e.g., into a nip or roll gap between the two rolls, each of which has appropriate surface features to cause corrugations in the resulting media).

Serviceable filter element or cartridge configurations utilizing z-shaped filter media are sometimes referred to as "straight-through flow configurations" or variations thereof. In general, serviceable filter elements or cartridges have an inlet flow end (or face) and an opposite outlet flow end (or face), wherein flow into and out of the cartridge is in substantially the same straight-through direction. The term "serviceable" in this context is intended to refer to media containing a filter element that is periodically removed and replaced from a corresponding fluid (e.g., air) filter.

Air filter 10 (FIGS. 51 to 54)

Referring to fig. 51-54, a second example of the air cleaner 10 is presented. The air cleaner 10 is generally similar to the air cleaner 10 shown in fig. 1-50. Thus, where such similarities exist, the previous description applies to this example. The air cleaner 10 of fig. 51 to 54 differs from the first example in the manner of restraining the peripheral wall 22 of the housing body 20. In this example, the opening 127 is configured as a pocket 127 defined by the radial flange structure 125 that receives the protrusion 28 on the housing body 20. Similar to the first example, once the cartridge 100 is fully installed, the pocket 127 contacts the protrusion 28 and draws the peripheral wall into the desired shape to ensure that a seal is fully formed between the sealing member 130 and the interior sealing surface 22f of the housing body 20.

Air filter 10 (FIGS. 55-60)

Referring to fig. 55-60, a third example of the air cleaner 10 is presented. The air cleaner 10 is generally similar to the air cleaner 10 shown in fig. 1-50. Thus, where such similarities exist, the previous description applies to this example. The air cleaner 10 of fig. 55 to 60 differs from the first example in that only two protrusions 28 and openings 127 are provided on the long sides of the case body 20 and the flange 125, respectively. Additionally, the seal member 130 is shown as being positioned further toward the second end 104 of the cartridge 102 and further away from the flange 125 than in the first example. Thus, it is illustrated that the sealing member 130 may be positioned adjacent to the flange 125 or in a location remote from the flange 125. The air cleaner 10 of fig. 55-60 is also shown as having a flange 125 that splits into two segments 125c, 125d at the short end 125b of the cartridge, such that the flange segment 125d performs the same function as the tab 121 of the first example.

In contrast to other embodiments, the flange 125 is also located at an intermediate point between the first end 102 and the second end 104, rather than being positioned adjacent to the first end 102. It should be noted that the flange 125 may also be positioned proximate the second end 104. In one aspect, it is advantageous to position the opening/protrusion holding housing sidewall 22 close to sealing member 130 so that potential deflection of flexible sidewall 22 is minimized at the location of the seal.

In one aspect, the air cleaner of fig. 55-64 includes an attachment arrangement 150 for securing the filter cartridge 100 to the housing body 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter cartridge 100 is provided with a first attachment member 152, which in this example is configured as a pair of hinged latch members 152. The housing body 20 is provided with a second attachment member 154 interconnected with the first attachment member 152. In the example shown, the second attachment member 154 is configured as a rib structure 154 disposed on the housing body side wall 22. In one aspect, the attachment arrangement 150 is provided on the long side 22a of the housing body sidewall 22 and the long side 100a of the filter cartridge 100.

As best seen at fig. 58, 59 and 62, the hinged latch member 152 has a body 152a defining an opening 152b through which the second attachment member 154 can extend. The hinged latch member 152 is also shown as being provided with a flange member that an operator can use to grip the latch member 152a, and which may also impart strength to the body 152 a. In the example shown, the body 152a is connected to the flange 125 via a living hinge 152 d. The rib structure 154 includes a main body 154a that extends radially outward from the housing body side wall 22, and includes a ramp surface 154b and a latch surface 154 c. The ramp surface 154b allows the body 154a to more easily align with and pass through the opening 152b of the latch member 152, while the latch surface 154c engages the side edge of the latch member body 152a defined by the opening 152 b. Thus, it can be said that the interaction between the latch member 152 and the rib structure 154 causes them to form a snap-fit connection with each other.

Fig. 55 shows latch member 152 in an open or unlatched position such that filter cartridge 100 can be separated from housing body 20, while fig. 56-59 show latch member 152 in a latched or closed position such that filter cartridge 100 is secured to housing body 20. As should be appreciated, the attachment arrangement 150 further constrains the housing sidewall 22 from deflecting inwardly and outwardly, and thus may be used in conjunction with the tab-receptacle arrangement 28/127 to stabilize the long side 22a of the housing body sidewall 22. Although filter cartridge 100 is shown with hinged latch members 152 and housing 20 is shown with rib structure 154, an inverted configuration may be employed such that one or both of latch members 152 are located on housing body 20 and one or both of rib protrusions 154 are located on filter cartridge 100. Although two attachment arrangements 150 are shown, fewer or more attachment arrangements may be provided.

Air filter 10 (FIGS. 67 to 81)

Referring to fig. 67 to 81, a fourth example of the air cleaner 10 is presented. The air cleaner 10 is generally similar to the air cleaner 10 shown in fig. 1-50. Thus, where such similarities exist, the previous description applies to this example. The air cleaner 10 of fig. 67-81 differs from the first example in several respects. For example, the sealing arrangement 130 of the air filter cartridge 100 includes an additional axial sealing member 132 c. Moreover, the handle 124 of the cartridge 100 is configured in a different manner. The filter cartridge 100 also includes a seat leg 144 for ensuring that the filter cartridge 200 is fully seated and retained within the housing body 20. The cartridge 200 is also shown as being provided without the tabs 206 a. As discussed in the following sections, air filter cartridge 100 is also provided with a recess 121a in protrusion 121 for receiving protrusion or guide member 67 of pre-filter or cap assembly 30.

As most readily seen at fig. 71-75 and 77, the sealing arrangement 130 is also provided with a sealing member 132 c. As configured, the sealing member 132c is formed onto the flange 125, such as by injection molding a TPE lip seal onto the flange. In one aspect, the sealing member 132c forms a closed loop on the flange 125 and extends axially away from the flange 125 at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis X. Once installed, the seal member 132c forms an axial seal with the flange wall 34 of the precleaner assembly 60. As best seen at fig. 69, the flange wall 34 and the flange 124 are generally parallel to one another with the sealing member 132c extending therebetween. At this location, a seal is formed, which ensures that all air being treated by the precleaner assembly 60 is directed into the air filter cartridge 100.

The air filter cartridge 100 is also provided with handles 124 that have a lower profile and are positioned in a different manner than the first disclosed embodiment. As shown, two handles 124 extend axially from the flange 125 and are located on opposite diagonal corners. Each handle 124 may be provided with an aperture 124a for accepting a finger of an operator so that a pulling force may be applied to the handle 124 to remove the filter cartridge 100. By incorporating the low profile handle 124 into the design, less space is required between the precleaner outlet and the air filter inlet, thereby allowing the air cleaner assembly 10 to have a shorter overall length. In addition, the disclosed design of the handle 124 enables a simpler molding process because the entire housing 120 can be formed during an open-close injection molding process without the use of a slide gate (slider).

Air filter cartridge 100 is additionally provided with a stand-off leg 144 extending from peripheral wall 142 of shell 140 in a direction generally parallel to longitudinal axis X and peripheral wall 142. In the example shown, the stand legs 144 are integrally formed with the shell 140. However, the stand legs 144 may be formed separately and later attached. In the example shown, four stand legs 144 are provided. However, more or fewer support legs 144 may be provided. Once cartridge 200 has been at least partially installed, support leg 144 of cartridge 100 abuts a top surface or flange 202a of cartridge frame 202. Once this contact occurs, the installation force and movement of filter cartridge 100 will apply pressure to filter cartridge 200 via support legs 144 to fully seat filter cartridge 200 in the installed position. After installation, the support legs 144 serve to hold the cartridge 200 in place. As best seen at fig. 78, the cartridge 200 includes a handle 206 that extends in the opposite direction of the support leg 144 and resides within the gap defined between the outlet of the cartridge 100 and the inlet of the cartridge 200 and established by the support leg 144.

Air filter 10 (fig. 82-103)

Referring to fig. 82 to 81, a fifth example of the air cleaner 10 is presented. The air cleaner 10 is generally similar to the air cleaner 10 shown in fig. 67-81. For example, air filter cartridge 100 is generally of the same design. Similar considerations also exist with respect to the air cleaner 10 shown in fig. 1-50. Thus, where such similarities exist, the previous description applies to this example. The air cleaner 10 of fig. 82-103 differs from other examples in several respects. For example, the air cleaner 10 is provided with a different safety cartridge 200 design and is also provided with a different cover assembly 30 design.

Referring to fig. 92 to 95, the cap assembly 30 is shown in isolation. The cover assembly 30 may be referred to as a precleaner assembly 30, which in turn houses a precleaner 60. In one aspect, the first member 30a is connected to the second member 30b to form the precleaner assembly 30 and precleaner 60. A sealing member 30d may be provided between the first part 30a and the case body 20 to prevent air leakage. The pre-filter 60 is generally used to filter selected substances or contaminants carried by the air flow entering the air filter assembly 10 before the air reaches the filter element positioned in the air filter assembly. The pre-filter 60 generally includes a plurality of separation tubes 62 or centrifugal separators that receive air and rotate the air to remove large particulates, and then permit the pre-filtered air to exit the pre-filter. As shown, the separator tube 62 is formed on the second component 30b of the precleaner assembly 30. The precleaned air exits the separator tube 62 into the outlet tube 64 of the precleaner 60 and then flows into the inlet flow face of the filter cartridge 100. As shown, the outlet tube 64 is formed on the first member 30a of the precleaner assembly 30. A scavenging port or outlet 66 may be provided for removing the separated large particulates. In the embodiment shown in fig. 92, fourteen separator tubes 70 are provided. More or fewer separator tubes 62 and corresponding outlet tubes 64 may be provided. The air precleaner assembly 30 may also be provided with guide members 67 extending from the first component 30a toward the interior of the housing body 20 and the filter cartridge 100. In one aspect, guide member 67 is received into recess 121a formed by protrusion 121 in cartridge 100. Such a configuration provides additional positioning to stabilize the filter cartridge 100 within the housing body 20. This feature is also present in the example shown at fig. 67-81, as most readily seen at fig. 70 and 72-75. The first member 30a of the precleaner assembly 30 may also be provided with a radial flange portion 35 for closing a radial gap between the first member 30a and the housing body 20 to prevent the ingress of contaminants.

In contrast to the example shown at fig. 1-50, the first and second components 30a and 30b are secured together via a snap-fit type connection 33 independent of an external fastener (e.g., fastener 30 c). Thus, when the precleaner assembly 30 of fig. 92-95 is removed from the housing body 20, the first and second members 30a, 30b remain connected to each other. In the case of the example shown at fig. 1-50, the first and second portions 30a, 30b are held together by the same fastener 30c that holds the components 30a, 30b to the housing body 20. Thus, when fastener 30c is removed to access filter cartridge 100, parts 30a, 30b become separated. Thus, the snap-fit connection 33 has the advantage that an operator does not have to manipulate two separate components to access the interior of the housing body 20 to perform maintenance on the filter cartridge 100 and/or 200. In one aspect, the snap-fit connection 33 is formed by a pair of recesses or apertures 33a formed in the first component 30a and a corresponding pair of deflectable latch arms 33b formed in the second component 30 b. As best seen at fig. 95, the deflectable latch arms 33b each include outwardly ramped latch portions 33c that engage catch surfaces 33d formed in the first component 30a adjacent the aperture 33 a.

As the second component 30b is mounted to the first component, the ramped surface 33e of the latching portion 33c directs and deflects these deflectable latching arms inwardly toward the aperture 33 a. As the second component 30b is further mounted to the first component 30c, the ramp surface 33e moves beyond the catch surface 33d on the first component and the deflectable latch arm 33b deflects outwardly toward its natural state until the latching surface 33f of the latching portion 33c engages the catch surface 33 d. At this time, the first member 30a is fixed to the second member 30 b. As best seen at fig. 82 and 84-87, the assembled cover or precleaner assembly 30 may be secured to the housing body 20 via a clip or latch 90. In the example shown, a clip or latch 90 is engaged with the second component 30 b. Thus, the latch 90 operates to further secure the first and second components 30a, 30b together. In the example shown, the clamp or latch 90 is a spring steel latch. Other types of latches formed from various materials may also be used without departing from the concepts presented herein.

Referring to fig. 96-103, the filter cartridge 200 is shown in further detail. In one aspect, cartridge 200 includes an outer frame 202, a radial seal member 204, a circumferential flange arrangement 206, and a filter media 220 extending between an inlet end 220a and an outlet end 220 b. As shown, the filter media is pleated media. However, other types of configurations are possible, such as fluted media. In the example shown, the circumferential flange structure 206 is proximate the inlet end 220a of the filter media 220 and is integrally formed with the outer frame 202. The circumferential flange structure 206 extends radially outward from the outer frame 202 and functions to provide a handle surface for an operator during installation and removal of the filter cartridge 200. The circumferential flange structure 206 also abuts a portion of the housing body 20 (e.g., rib 20a) to ensure that the filter cartridge 200 is not installed beyond a desired location within the housing body 20. In addition, the flange structure 206 also operates to maintain a spacing between the (non-sealing) interior surface of the housing body 20 and the sealing member 204 during insertion of the cartridge 200 such that the sealing member 204 does not contact the housing body 20 until engaged with a designated sealing surface of the housing body 20. This function helps prevent the sealing member 204 from contacting contaminants that may be present on the interior surface of the housing body 20. The outer frame 202 is also shown formed with pleat management features 210 for ensuring that the pleats are properly spaced and retained.

In the example shown, the sealing member 204 is an injection molded thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The sealing member 204 may also be formed from other materials, such as polyurethane. In one example, the seal member 204 is provided as an injection molded gasket that is molded directly onto the outer frame 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the seal member 202 is provided as an injection molded gasket having a radial lip seal 204a and a tab portion 204 b. In one aspect, the seal member 204 includes a first segment 204c circumscribing the filter media 220 such that the segment 204c is axially located between planes defined by the inlet end 220a and the outlet end 220b of the filter media 220. The seal member 204 is also shown to include a second segment 204d that is positioned beyond the plane defined by the outlet end 220b of the filter media. To facilitate this configuration, the outer frame 202 is provided with an extended height H2 to support the second section 204d that is greater than the height H1 of the support frame portion supporting the first section 204c, as indicated at fig. 99. Third and fourth segments 204e, 204f of the seal member 204 are provided that join the first and second segments 204c, 204d together. In one aspect, the first and second segments 204c, 204d are generally parallel to a plane defined by the inlet and outlet ends 220a, 220b of the filter media 220, while the segments 204e, 204f extend at an oblique angle to the segments 204c, 204d and the plane defined by the inlet and outlet ends 220a, 220 b. One advantage of the disclosed design of the cartridge 200 is that more interior space is available for accessing and grasping the bottom side of the handle/flange arrangement 206 within the housing body 20, as indicated by interior space 20b at fig. 90.

Air filter 10 (fig. 104-115)

Referring to fig. 104 to 115, a sixth example of the air cleaner 10 is presented. The air cleaner 10 is generally similar to the air cleaner 10 shown in fig. 82-103. For example, the safety filter cartridge 200 and precleaner assembly 60 incorporate the same general design concept (although sized differently). Similar points also exist with respect to the air cleaner 10 shown in fig. 1-50 and with respect to the air cleaner 10 shown in fig. 51-54. Thus, where such similarities exist, the previous description applies to this example. The air cleaner 10 of fig. 104-115 differs from other examples in several respects. For example, the air cleaner 10 is provided with a main filter cartridge 100 design and associated configuration changes configured in different ways in the housing body 20.

The air cleaner 10 of fig. 104-115 is similar to that shown at fig. 51-54 in that the filter cartridge 100 utilizes a pocket-type structure to restrain the peripheral wall 22 of the housing body 20. Thus, in this example, the openings 127 are configured as pockets 127 defined by the radial flange structure 125 that receive the projections 28 on the housing body 20. Once the pocket 127 contacts the protrusion 28, once the cartridge 100 is fully installed, the peripheral wall is drawn to the desired shape, which ensures that a seal is fully formed between the sealing member 130 and the interior sealing surface 22f of the housing body 20. In this example, the housing body 20 is provided with additional projections 29 that are received by additional pockets or channels defined by the radial flange structure 125. As best seen at the cross-sectional views at fig. 106 and 107, this configuration results in the seal members 130 being located on opposite sides of the boss 28 of the housing body 20 such that the boss 28 and the seal members 130 are radially aligned. Accordingly, the protrusion 28 may act more directly on the pocket structure 127 and the sealing member 130 to ensure a seal between the sealing member 130 and the interior sealing surface 22f of the housing body.

Other features and advantages

In some examples of the disclosed filter cartridge 100 disclosed herein, the seal member 130 is formed from an injection molded material (e.g., TPE), as previously explained. The ability of the injection molded seal with seal lip 132 to compensate for under-compression and over-compression of the seal 130 against the housing is reduced compared to other types of sealing materials (e.g., polyurethane). Thus, injection molded sealing members having sealing lips are more likely to form leakage paths between the housing sealing surface 22f and the sealing member 130 under over-compression or under-compression conditions. As previously stated, the housing sidewall 22 is relatively flexible along the long side 22a and, thus, more generally tends to deflect inwardly and outwardly relative to the sealing member. Further, manufacturing tolerances of the housing having relatively long sides may result in irregularities that may compromise the seal between the sealing member 130 and the sealing surface 22 f. The use of injection molded sealing members with lip seals is particularly prone to undesirable leakage paths where both conditions exist. However, the interaction between the opening 127 and the projection 28 (which together form a projection-receptacle arrangement) provides a solution to these conditions and operates to restrain and stabilize the housing sidewall 22 in a fixed position such that the seal between the sealing member 130 and the sealing surface 22f is adequately maintained. The seal is even further enhanced by the following configuration: the base member 130a of the sealing member abuts the interior surface of the housing sidewall 22 to provide inward restraint on the housing sidewall 22. With such restraint provided, the housing sidewall 22 is stabilized in both the inward and outward directions to advantageously maintain the seal between the sealing member 130 and the sealing surface 22 f. The tab projection 133 can also provide another means to restrain the housing sidewall 22 from excessive inward deflection. Notably, the seal member 130 is axially located between the protrusion-receptacle arrangement 28/127 and the portion of the base member 130a that contacts the housing 22 such that the full restraining action is directed at the location where the seal is formed. The closer the sealing member 130 is to the projection-receptacle arrangement 28/127, the easier it is that an adequate seal can be maintained. However, it should be understood that in certain arrangements, the location of the seal member 130 may be independent of the location of the tab-receptacle arrangement 28/127.

Any of the air filter cartridges 100 disclosed herein may be provided with a sealing member 130 proximate to the opening 127 or distal to the opening 127. For example, the seal member 130 can be positioned proximate the second end 104 of the cartridge, while the opening 127 can be positioned proximate the first end 102 of the cartridge. Conversely, the seal member 130 can be positioned proximate the first end 102 of the cartridge, while the opening 127 can be positioned proximate the second end 104 of the cartridge. Additionally, either or both of the seal member 130 and the opening 127 can be located at a midpoint or central location of the filter cartridge 100 (e.g., the middle quarter, the middle third, etc. of the filter cartridge between the first end 102 and the second end 104). The shell 120 may be located at any point of the cartridge 100 corresponding to the location of the seal member 130.

As previously stated, the filter cartridge 100 may alternatively be provided with the protrusion 28 in place of the opening 127, wherein the opening is provided on the housing body 20. An example of such a configuration is shown at fig. 61 and 62, where the tab 28 extends from the flange 125 in a direction toward the second end 104 of the cartridge 100. Further, the cartridge 100 can be provided with both the opening 127 and the projection 28, while the housing body 28 can likewise be provided with the corresponding opening 127 and projection 28. Additionally, the filter cartridge 100 and housing body 20 can be provided with any number of desired openings 127 and protrusions 28 along each long side, e.g., one, two, three, four, or more.

From the foregoing detailed description, it will be apparent that modifications and variations can be made in aspects of the disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of these aspects. While the best modes for carrying out the many aspects of the present teachings have been described in detail, those familiar with the art to which these teachings relate will recognize various alternative aspects for practicing the present teachings that are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (80)

1. A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly, the filter cartridge comprising:

a) a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, the length being greater than the width;

b) a radially directed sealing member disposed about the media pack outer periphery; and

c) a first member of a tab-receptacle arrangement for engaging a second member of the tab-receptacle arrangement on a housing of the air cleaner assembly, the first member positioned along a length of an outer perimeter of the media pack.

2. A filter cartridge as recited in claim 1, wherein the first member is disposed on a flange extending radially from the media pack outer periphery.

3. A filter cartridge as recited in claim 1 or 2, further comprising a circumferential shell surrounding at least a portion of the media pack outer periphery.

4. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the first member is provided on a flange extending radially from the circumferential shell.

5. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1-4 wherein the first member defines an opening for receiving a projection of the second member.

6. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first member comprises a plurality of first members.

7. The cartridge of any one of claims 1-6, wherein at least some of the first plurality of members define openings.

8. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first members are spaced apart.

9. A filter cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the radially directed seal member and the first member are located closer to the media pack inlet end than to the media pack outlet end.

10. A filter cartridge as recited in any one of claims 1-9, wherein the first member is positioned closer to the media pack inlet end than the radially directed seal member.

11. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1-10 wherein the first member includes at least one first member positioned along a first long side of the media pack and at least one first member positioned along a second long side of the media pack.

12. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1-11 wherein the first member includes two first members located on a first long side of the media pack.

13. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first member is a projection.

14. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first member is an axially extending projection.

15. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1-14 wherein the flange extends continuously around the media pack outer periphery.

16. A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly, the filter cartridge comprising:

a) a media pack configured for installation into an air cleaner housing, the media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack defining an outer perimeter;

b) a circumferential shell surrounding at least a portion of the media pack outer periphery;

c) a radial flange extending from the circumferential shell proximate the media pack inlet end;

d) a plurality of openings defined by the radial flange, the plurality of openings configured to receive protrusions on a housing body of the air cleaner assembly.

17. The filter cartridge of claim 16, wherein the filter cartridge has a first length and a first width, wherein the first length is greater than the first width, and wherein the plurality of openings are positioned along the first length of the filter cartridge.

18. The cartridge of claim 16 or 17, wherein the plurality of openings are configured as slots extending through the radial flange.

19. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 16 to 18 wherein said circumferential shell only partially surrounds said media pack.

20. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the plurality of openings are open pocket-like structures.

21. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the filter insert has an oblong shape.

22. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 16 to 21 wherein the media pack is fluted media.

23. The cartridge of any one of claims 16-22, wherein the plurality of openings includes at least two openings.

24. The filter cartridge of any one of claims 16-23, wherein the plurality of openings includes at least three openings.

25. The filter cartridge of any one of claims 16-24, wherein the plurality of openings includes at least one opening on a first flange segment and at least one opening on a second flange segment opposite the first flange segment.

26. The filter cartridge of any one of claims 16-25, wherein the number of openings in the first flange section is not equal to the number of openings in the second flange section.

27. The filter cartridge of any one of claims 16-26, wherein the number of openings in the first flange segment is equal to the number of openings in the second flange segment.

28. The filter cartridge of any one of claims 16-27, wherein the first flange segment includes one opening and the second flange segment includes two openings.

29. An air cleaner assembly, comprising:

(a) an openable filter housing defining an interior region and an interior sealing surface;

b) a filter cartridge, the filter cartridge comprising:

(a) a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, the length being greater than the width;

(b) a radially directed sealing member disposed about the media pack outer periphery, the sealing member forming a seal with the interior sealing surface; and

c) a projection-receptacle arrangement comprising a first member and a second member:

(a) the first member is positioned along a length of the media pack outer perimeter;

(b) the second member is located on the housing.

30. The air cleaner of claim 29, wherein the first member includes a plurality of openings and the second member includes a plurality of projections.

31. The air cleaner of claim 29 or claim 30, wherein the openable cleaner housing cover includes a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the plurality of projections.

32. An air cleaner according to any one of claims 29 to 31 wherein the second member is provided with a taper.

33. The air cleaner of any one of claims 29-32, wherein the radially directed seal member includes at least one lip seal extending from a base portion for forming a seal against an interior sealing surface of the housing, the base portion abutting the housing to inhibit deflection of the housing in a direction toward the media pack.

34. A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly, the filter cartridge comprising:

a) a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, the length being greater than the width; and

b) a radially directed seal member disposed about the media pack outer periphery, the radially directed seal member including at least one lip seal extending from a base portion for forming a seal against a housing of the air cleaner assembly, the base portion configured to abut the housing to constrain deflection of the housing in a direction toward the media pack.

35. The cartridge of claim 34, further comprising:

a) a first member of a tab-receptacle arrangement for engaging a second member of the tab-receptacle arrangement on a housing of the air cleaner assembly, the first member positioned along a length of an outer perimeter of the media pack.

36. The cartridge of claim 34 or 35, wherein the at least one lip seal includes a pair of lip seals.

37. The cartridge of any one of claims 35-36, further comprising a projection member extending from the seal member base portion.

38. A filter cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 34 to 37, wherein the projecting member is located between the pair of lip seals.

39. A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly, the filter cartridge comprising:

a) a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, the length being greater than the width;

b) a seal member extending at least partially around the media pack outer perimeter;

c) a first member of a tab-receptacle arrangement for engaging a second member of the tab-receptacle arrangement on a housing of the air cleaner assembly, the first member positioned along a length of an outer perimeter of the media pack.

40. A filter cartridge as recited in claim 39, wherein the first member is located between the seal member and the media pack inlet flow end.

41. A filter cartridge as recited in claim 39, wherein the first member is located between the seal member and the media pack outlet flow end.

42. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 41, further comprising:

a) a support structure extending around the media pack outer perimeter, wherein the first member is supported by the support structure.

43. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 39 to 42, wherein the support structure is a circumferential shell.

44. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 42, wherein the first member comprises a plurality of first members.

45. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 44, wherein the first plurality of members are separate components that are individually supported on the filter insert.

46. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 39-44 wherein said plurality of first members are commonly supported by said support structure.

47. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 39-46 wherein said plurality of first members are commonly supported by a flange member.

48. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 47, wherein the filter insert further comprises a radially outwardly facing contact surface for constraining deflection of the housing in a radially inward direction.

49. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 39 to 48, wherein the radially outwardly facing contact surface and the seal member are formed of the same material.

50. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 49, wherein the sealing member is formed as an injection moulded TPE material.

51. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 39 to 50 wherein said first member has a radially inwardly facing contact surface for engagement with said second member on said housing to restrain deflection of said housing in a radially outward direction.

52. A filter cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 51, wherein the sealing member includes at least one lip seal.

53. A filter cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 52, wherein the sealing member includes a pair of lip seals.

54. The cartridge of any one of claims 39-53, further comprising a projection member extending from the seal member base portion.

55. A filter cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 54, wherein the projecting member is located between the pair of lip seals.

56. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 39-55 wherein the seal member is located axially between the first member and the radially outwardly facing contact surface.

57. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 39 to 56, wherein the first member is closer to the inlet end of the media pack than to the outlet end.

58. A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly, the filter cartridge comprising:

a) a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, the length being greater than the width;

b) a seal member extending at least partially around the media pack outer perimeter;

c) a first member of an accessory arrangement for engagement with a second member of the accessory arrangement, the second member being located on a housing of the air cleaner assembly, the first member cooperating with the second member to secure the filter cartridge to the housing.

59. The filter cartridge of claim 58, wherein the first member is movable between a latched position and an unlatched position.

60. The filter cartridge of claim 58 or 59, wherein the first member is rotatable between the latched position and the unlatched position.

61. The filter cartridge of any one of claims 58-60, wherein the first member is rotatable about a living hinge.

62. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 58 to 61, wherein the filter insert comprises two first members.

63. A filter insert as claimed in any one of claims 58 to 62, wherein the first member is located on a first, opposite side of the filter insert.

64. The filter cartridge of any one of claims 58-63, wherein a first, opposite side of the filter cartridge has a larger dimension than a second, opposite side of the filter cartridge.

65. A filter insert as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the filter insert comprises a seat member extending beyond an outlet flow end of the filter insert media in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filter insert.

66. A filter cartridge as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the abutment members comprise four abutment members.

67. A filter cartridge as recited in any preceding claim, wherein the seat member is integrally formed with a frame circumscribing the media pack.

68. A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly, the filter cartridge comprising:

a) a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer perimeter, the length being greater than the width;

b) a radially directed seal member comprising a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment and the second segment are parallel to each other, and wherein the first segment is axially located between the inlet flow end and the outlet flow end, and wherein the second segment is axially located beyond the inlet or outlet end.

69. A filter cartridge as recited in any preceding claim, wherein the radially directed seal member is injection molded onto a frame circumscribing an outer perimeter of the media pack.

70. A filter cartridge as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a circumferential flange arrangement adjacent the media pack inlet end.

71. A filter cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the circumferential flange is integrally formed with an outer frame circumscribing the media pack.

72. A filter insert as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the circumferential flange forms a handle arrangement for installation and removal of the filter insert.

73. A filter cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the first and second segments of the seal member are joined by third and fourth segments to form a closed loop, wherein the third and fourth segments extend at an oblique angle to the first and second segments.

74. A precleaner assembly for an air cleaner, the precleaner assembly comprising:

a) a first housing component defining at least one separation tube;

b) a second housing component defining at least one outlet tube received by the at least one separation tube;

c) wherein the first housing part and the second housing part are fixed together by a snap-fit connection.

75. The precleaner assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein said snap-fit connection comprises at least one aperture in one of said first and second housing components and at least one deflectable latch arm in the other of said first and second housing components and received by said at least one aperture.

76. The precleaner assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein said at least one aperture comprises two apertures and said at least one deflectable latch arm comprises two deflectable latch arms.

77. A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly, the filter cartridge comprising:

a) a media pack configured for installation into an air cleaner housing, the media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack defining an outer perimeter;

b) a circumferential shell surrounding at least a portion of the media pack outer periphery;

c) a flange structure extending from the circumferential shell proximate the media pack inlet end;

d) a plurality of open pocket areas defined by the radial flange, the plurality of open pocket areas configured to receive protrusions on a housing body of the air cleaner assembly; and

e) a sealing arrangement supported on the flange structure.

78. An air filter according to any preceding claim, wherein the sealing arrangement is an outwardly directed radial seal.

79. An air filter cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the plurality of open pocket areas is located radially between the circumferential shell and the sealing arrangement.

80. An air cleaner cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the sealing arrangement includes at least one radially outwardly directed lip seal for forming a seal against an interior surface of the air cleaner housing.

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